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Expansion of pharmaceutical production, valued at R$500 million, consolidates Minas Gerais as a global reference in the health sector
Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk announced a new investment of R$500 million in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais. The value will be intended for the installation of a production line enzyme-oriented essential in the manufacture of medicines. This expansion is strategic to meet the growing global demand for treatments for chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, according to the EM website.
Among the highlights are enzymes enterokinase e ALP, crucial in the manufacture of insulin and GLP-1 analogues, such as Ozempic and Wegovy. Montes Claros is the sole supplier of these components for Novo Nordisk's headquarters in Denmark, consolidating its position as a global hub in the sector.
Investment details
The project, with start of works in January 2025, will create 400 indirect jobs during construction and 40 direct jobs during operation. Production is expected to begin in 2027, tripling current capacity.
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Global relevance
- The Montes Claros unit is responsible for 25% of global insulin production from Novo Nordisk.
- It represents 12% of world consumption e 25% of Brazilian pharmaceutical exports.
- More than 70% of insulin supplied to the SUS is produced by the company, serving 4,3 million Brazilians per year.
sustainability and innovation
In addition to the new investment, the company had already announced in 2023 a contribution of R$ 864 million to modernize its facilities. At the same time, in partnership with Elétron Energy, Novo Nordisk invests R$245 million in the construction of a solar park, with the capacity to generate 90 MWh. The project will come into operation in 2025, ensuring that all energy used by the unit comes from renewable sources.
Regional impacts and government support
The governor of Minas Gerais, Romeu Zema, highlighted the role of investment in the transformation of Montes Claros in one of the main pharmaceutical hubs in the country. According to him, the state is on track to reach half a trillion in private investments and generate one million jobs by 2025.
Testimonies from leaders;
- Reinaldo Costa, vice president of Novo Nordisk: “This investment reaffirms our commitment to Brazil and Minas Gerais.”
- Fernando Passalio, Secretary of Economic Development: “Montes Claros becomes a reference in innovation and sustainability, reinforcing the role of Minas Gerais in the energy transition.”
Minas Gerais also seeks to diversify its economy, reducing dependence on the mineral sector. In addition to the pharmaceutical industry, the state stands out in solar energy generation, representing 20% of national capacity, and attracts investments in sectors such as home appliances and automotive.
What Nova Nordisk is doing is truly absurd. Brazil has never had a shortage of 10 ml NPH and regular insulin. This large industry is simply not manufacturing these insulins, which are super necessary for the survival of diabetics, making the life of diabetics a real drama for their health. We would like to thank Nova Nordisk for solving the shortage of NPH and regular insulin. I would like to thank you in advance on behalf of the diabetic people of Brazil, especially the less fortunate!!!